Accountability and Transparency in Church Bookkeeping and Accounting

Accountability and Transparency in Church Bookkeeping and Accounting

Accountability and Transparency as far as it relates to bookkeeping and accounting in the church has been on my mind a lot lately. Webster’s dictionary defines accountability as “an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one’s actions”. Accountability can also be defined as being answerable or explainable. One definition of transparency is “to be free from pretense or deceit; readily understood”. Transparency is also characterized by visibility or accessibility of information. These qualities are so important in the realm of church financial reporting. Churches are above all else accountable to The Lord for their use of the money that He has provided. They must also be accountable to and transparent with the church elders or board as well as the congregation as a whole. I believe wholeheartedly that having the oversight and expertise of a bookkeeping and accounting professional, who is outside of the employ of the church, is essential for maintaining accountability and transparency. We are unbiased and responsible for maintaining proper accounting procedures and reporting. If your church is in need of a partner in the area of financial accountability and transparency, Covenant Accounting Services, LLC is here to be that partner!